Energy for future centuries: Will fusion be an inexhaustible, safe and clean energy source ?

The current power consumption in different parts of the world and an estimate of the future energy needs of the world are given. The present energy supplies and prospects, the possible consequences of a continued massive fossil fuel consumption, and the potential of non-fossil candidates for long-term energy production are outlined. An introduction to possible fusion processes in future fusion reactors is given. The inexhaustibility, safety, environmental and economic aspects of magnetic fusion energy are discussed.